Other cities to visit in Turkey

Turkey combines the best parts of east and west, offering soaring mountains, plains, beaches and deserts, as well as towering cliffs. The country is full of intricately designed buildings, art and culture; there have been many civilizations to inhabit the country through the ages. The variety offered on a Turkish vacation is unmatched- if you are planning a trip to this beautiful country, here are five cities you should visit.

Istanbul

It's one of the most advanced Turkish cities, with a cosmopolitan flair and an exciting nightlife. This is the only city in the world that is wedged between two continents, and it is among the busiest in the world. Founded by the Emperor Constantine in 326 AD, the city is full of mosques, museums, churches and bustling bazaars. Major attractions include Topkapi, the Blue Mosque, the Ava Sophia, and the Grand Bazaar.

The Bosphorus

A strait which divides Asia and Europe. Here, there are two suspension bridges that reach the water. The area attracts a large tourist base because of the tour boats and ferries which offer a great view of Istanbul. Must-see plaes are Uskudar (on the Asian side), the Dolmabahce Palace, as well as old mansions and restaurants. The coast yields castles built by Ottomans and Byzantines alike.

The sea of Marmara

is west of Istanbul, encompassing the provinces of Marmara and Thrace. Canakkale and Gelibolu are the entrance to the Dardanelles, a strait that opens upon the Mediterranean Sea. Bursa and Thrace have many examples of historic architecture, and outside of Bursa is a mountain resort that provides hiking opportunities in summer and a lot of skiing in the winter. South of Gallipoli lies the ruin of the ancient city of Troy.

The Aegean coast

offers historical sightseeing and gorgeous beaches. Ayvalik, Ayvacik, and Behramkale attract thousands of visitors every year, most of them visitors to Assos' Temple of Athena. South of there lies the ruin of Pergamum, which is now the site of the modern city of Bergama. Also on the Aegean coast is Izmir, one of Turkey's most important cities.

The Mediterranean Coast

offers gorgeous weather and picturesque views, making it an immensely popular vacation spot. It's also a hotbed of archaeological discovery! Antalya is a quaint beach town encircled by resorts and a harbor. Must-see sites include Yivli Minare mosque, and Hidirlik Kulesi.